ADMINISTRATIVE
Mr. Wade Ortego
Head of School
Bio
B.S., Business, Bryan College in Dayton, Tennessee; M.Ed., Abilene Christian University.
As a leader in classical Christian schools, my great passion is to assist families in the education of their children toward a Biblical worldview that acknowledges Christ as the author and perfecter of the Christian faith. I am committed to the classical Christian model of education and enjoy introducing families to its many benefits. I put a strong emphasis on maintaining and building a student culture.
I was most recently Headmaster of the Classical Christian Academy in Post Falls, Idaho. Prior to that, I led the Classical School of Wichita in Kansas.
My wife, Rachel, and I have been married for 23 years and have three boys: Matthew, age 17; Elijah, 16; and Jedidiah, 5.
Church Affiliation: The King’s Congregation, Meridian
Mr. Carl Warmouth
Dean of Grammar School
Bio
B.S., Psychology, Tennessee Wesleyan University. Former Headmaster at Trinity Christian School in Opelika, Alabama before coming to The Ambrose School in 2014.
I first became convicted of the value of classical Christian education in 1999 after my wife began teaching at a classical Christian school and we enrolled our oldest child there. After reading Recovering the Lost Tools of Learning, Excused Absence, and The Paideia of God by Doug Wilson, I sensed God calling me to be involved in a greater way. After considerable time spent seeking God, I made a career change and was hired as the upper school principal at Trinity Christian School. The following year I was asked to serve as headmaster. My two children both received a K-12 classical Christian education. My son graduated from Ambrose in 2017 and my daughter continued her classical Christian education at New Saint Andrews College in Moscow, Idaho. My wife has been a grammar school teacher now for more than 18 years. I believe deeply in the vision and mission of The Ambrose School, and am honored to be a part of it.
My previous experience includes nine years in the resort industry and 10 years in child and family counseling as the Therapeutic Program Director at a residential treatment center for emotionally disturbed children. I love the people and culture of the Treasure Valley and the opportunities for outdoor adventure.
Church Affiliation: Ruling Elder, The King’s Congregation
Dr. Heather Jennings
Academic Dean
Bio
Ph.D. in English literature, University of California Davis; M.A. in English literature, Boise State University; B.A. in government, Patrick Henry College.
My engagement with classical Christian education spans nearly twenty years, from taking courses on the literature and history of Greece and Rome in high school from Andrew Kern, a leading thinker and teacher in the cCe movement; to teaching 5th then 12th grades at The Ambrose School; to writing my dissertation on habits of learning in medieval England. I appreciate how classical Christian education situates learning as an expression of loving God with all our minds, equips students to be life-long learners by approaching education not simply as dispensing information but as the formation of habits, teaches students to make connections among all subjects they study, and prepares students to be culture-makers by engaging with the art and ideas that have shaped our world.
I grew up in Boise, Idaho, and spent the past six and a half years in the Sacramento and beautiful San Francisco Bay areas, pursuing my doctorate and teaching at the University of California Davis and Sonoma State University. My husband Brian and I have two preschool aged daughters; we love to read and discuss what we’ve read, entertain, do CrossFit, and spend time in beautiful surroundings by camping, mountain biking, hiking, and traveling.
Church Affiliation: Holy Trinity Anglican Church
Mr. Kelly Barbour
Chief Operations Officer
Athletics Director
Bio
B.S., History, Political Science, Classics (minor), College of Idaho; J.D., University of Virginia School of Law
I have been involved in coaching and mentoring for most of my life. Starting with teaching Sunday School as a 9th grader, I went on to coach high school baseball and serve as a youth and young adult leader while in college. I have coached youth sports for the last 27 years. From 2014 – 2017, I had the privilege of serving as the radio analyst for football broadcasts for my alma mater, the College of Idaho.
I was raised in a home that valued literature and scripture and I was exposed to a wide variety of educational environments and philosophies over the years (one-room schoolhouse, home school, private Christian school, public school, classical studies in college, law school). With that backdrop, I discovered the classical Christian world just in time to enroll my son Wyatt, and later, my second son, James, at The Ambrose School.
After serving on the Ambrose Board of Directors for several years and being exposed to the beauty of and need for classical Christian education in our world, I left behind 17+ years of private law practice and hospital administration and joined the staff of the Ambrose School in April, 2019.
Church Affiliation: Faith Community Bible Church
Mr. Joe Gerber
Dean of Upper School
Bio
B.A., History, Boise State University; B.B.S., Biblical Studies, Calvary Chapel Bible College; Masters Social Work, Northwest Nazarene University. I started teaching at The Ambrose School in 2013.
I chose to teach at The Ambrose School because of the profound focus that Ambrose places on teaching the students to love that which is good, beautiful, and true. At The Ambrose School, there is an appreciation for embodied practices meant to move one’s worship toward God. Discipleship involves not only the information provided to another soul but also the proper formation of that soul through the development of a student’s affections. This focus at The Ambrose School is especially suited to the joy that I receive not only in learning but also in growing in my relationship with Christ in a community of like-minded believers. My philosophy of teaching is that learning to love God is not mutually exclusive of learning about God’s wonderful creation. To love God is to love to learn because God made all things to say something very important about Himself. The more we discover truth, the more our hearts will be transformed into the source of all truth, God.
I am married to my amazing wife, Janice. We have four sons and love living in the Boise area because we both grew up here and being close to family and friends is very important to us.
Church Affiliation: Ruling Elder, All Saints Presbyterian Church
Mrs. Mandi Moore
Dean of Bridge Campus
Bio
B.S. Multi-Disciplinary Science, Texas Tech University – College of Education; Texas Educator Certification – Secondary Science Composite (Grades 6-12); M.A. Physical Therapy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center; Cross Classical Academy – Board President
While prayerfully researching education options for our oldest child, my husband, Tim, and I became convinced that classical Christian education was the most effective method for raising our children to love the Lord whole-heartedly, think deeply from a Biblical worldview, discern truth, effectively communicate the gospel, and deeply influence the world. This conviction led us to serve on the founding board of Cross Classical Academy (CCA), the first of its kind in the Heart of Texas region, in order to make Classical Christian Education available to families of our community.
Our daughter and son attended CCA and I served as Administrator from 2010 through 2015, when my husband accepted a cardiology position at St. Alphonsus and we relocated to Idaho. Our family is grateful for the opportunity to continue our journey in classical Christian education at The Ambrose School, where we are deeply committed to the school’s mission and are daily blessed by the community of exceptional staff and families. I am excited to participate in the work to extend Ambrose to more families in southern Idaho through the Bridge Campus, a model that combines the best of Christian Classical education with the best aspects of home schooling.
As native Texans, it has been a delight to experience the many activities Idaho has to offer. From spending time outdoors hiking, mountain biking, running, rafting, snowmobiling, and skiing to savoring restaurants and fine arts productions downtown, our family ENJOYS Boise life and the amazing people who call it home.
Church Affiliation: All Saints Presbyterian Church
Mr. Jordan Tucker
Dean of Students
Bio
B.A., Philosophy and Religion, Northwest University. I began teaching at The Ambrose School in 2013.
My commitment to the classical Christian model is rooted in its understanding that education is about cultivating the whole person toward the design and purpose that God has given humanity. Students are correctly understood as growing into their calling as God’s viceroys, and they are equipped to become culture builders for His glory. Moreover, the classical Christian model properly recognizes the family as the God-ordained institution for raising children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, and it supports parents in fulfilling this beautiful responsibility. I’m firmly convinced of the vision and mission of The Ambrose School because they are biblical; and I consider it a blessing to be a member of the community.
I’m married to my wonderful wife, Ariel. We have two sons and enjoy adventure, all types of games, snowboarding, and relishing food while trying new restaurants.
Church Affiliation: The King’s Congregation, Meridian
Mrs. Kajsa Wilkins
Dean of the North Campus
Bio
B.A., Piano Performance, University of Idaho
I have been surrounded by classical Christian education for as long as I can remember. Both of my parents were involved in teaching and leading in the classical Christian world, and I graduated from a K-12 classical Christian school. After having children of our own, my husband and I felt that God called us to educate our children with a Biblical foundation-and that classical Christian education is the model that best provides this. We wanted our children to not only seek and be given knowledge, but to follow Christ’s command in the Great Commission-to not just be hearers of the Word, but doers of the Word.
My husband and I both have degrees in music and followed his operatic career around the country for the first 15 years of our marriage. This led us to many cities, but we were in New York for the longest period. There, I was hired to teach music by the only classical Christian school in Manhattan, and both of our children were able to attend. After several years of teaching, I began to feel called to be in administration. God provided an unexpected opportunity through the Covid lockdowns. My husband was no longer able to perform, and we began looking for the next steps. An opening arose in Wichita, Kansas at the Classical School of Wichita, and I became their Director of Academics and Fine Arts.
I am thrilled to be stepping into the role of Dean of the new North Campus! Ambrose has been a staple for a long time in the world of classical Christian education, and it is so exciting to see how God is blessing the fruits of their labor! I am eager to further the mission and vision of The Ambrose School with this campus and reach even more families, growing the community throughout the city. “For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord as the waters cover the sea.” Hab. 2:14
My husband, Bray, and I have two teenage children, Hobbes and Madeline. They are in high school and are excited to experience all Idaho has to offer! As a native of Idaho, I am so happy to be returning to the mountains and rivers of my home state and to get to share it with my family.
Church Affiliation: The King’s Congregation
Mrs. Amy Yenor
Events Director
Bio
B.A., Business Communication, University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.
I grew up in Wisconsin, met my husband at college and when we graduated we moved to Chicago so he could attend graduate school. During that time Target entered the Chicago market. I was involved with opening new stores and making sure the stores were staffed.
Our oldest child started kindergarten at The Ambrose School. We now have four graduates and one child enrolled at the school.
The Ambrose community is our family here in Boise and we have been blessed to be involved. I coordinate the major events at the school including Serve with Compassion Day, Christmas program, annual auction, and various other events.
Church Affiliation: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church
Mrs. Debbie Skinner
Bookkeeper
Bio
B.S., Information Systems, University of Colorado
I started working at The Ambrose School in the fall of 2005. After helping in the classroom with anything from lunch duty to substitute teaching, I was confident I wanted to work at a place that is making an impact in our world. Working close to my children was a bonus. I started as the headmaster’s assistant working on special projects, eventually taking on additional duties as bookkeeper.
My husband and I chose a classical Christian education for our children not only for the rigorous educational experience but also because God’s word is interwoven throughout every subject. The Ambrose School guides students to live for God in all areas of their lives.
All three of my children graduated from The Ambrose School, attending from kindergarten through 12th grade.
Church Affiliation: Rock Harbor
Mrs. Ellen Baumann
Librarian, Testing Coordinator, Bridge Campus Registrar
Bio
B.A., Anthropology, The University of Texas at Austin; JD, Southern Methodist University (Dedman) School of Law, Dallas, TX
My husband, David, and our family moved here from Texas in 2009, and we have four boys at The Ambrose School. The older boys previously attended a classical Christian school in the Dallas area; having a school like Ambrose near Boise was one of the factors which influenced us to relocate here. We love living in the Treasure Valley, especially the mild winters, the cool[er] summers, and the beautiful surroundings.
Mrs. Michele Vernon
Admissions & Development Director
Bio
I began working at The Ambrose School in January 2015 when my two boys were in 4th and 7th grade. We were already part of the school family since my oldest started kindergarten at The Ambrose School, formerly Foundations Academy, in 2007. From the first time my husband and I visited the school, we knew this was the place for our kids. We love the classical Christian education and my boys are challenged academically and spiritually by teachers who love them and care about their character. As the administrative assistant, I am truly blessed to be able to work at the school where my boys attend.
My family loves the Idaho outdoors. We love water sports and to explore the Boise foothills on our mountain bikes.
Church Affiliation: Calvary Boise
Mrs. Suzi Kramer
Graphic Designer
Bio
B.F.A., Interior Architecture with an Architecture minor, University of Idaho
Classical Christian education was not something my husband and I were familiar with, but after a lot of research we felt this was the best type of education for our kids. When our daughter started kindergarten at Ambrose in 2008, we saw firsthand what classical Christian meant and we were so grateful we had found The Ambrose School. It was an environment that not only focused on education, but the development of a student’s character, which we felt was so important. Our son started kindergarten two years later and we have been at the school ever since!
I became involved at the school when my daughter was in kindergarten. I was a homeroom parent, classroom volunteer, and volunteer graphic designer. Eventually my volunteer hours became a paid job and in 2010 I became an official employee of Ambrose. I love that I am able to work where my kids are going to school everyday.
My husband, Adam, and I have two kids: Rylee and Jackson. We love to have BBQs and movie nights in the backyard with friends and family.
Church Affiliation: Ten Mile Christian
Mrs. Susan Sawyer
Human Resources
Bio
B.S., Business Marketing, University of Idaho
I was introduced to classical Christian education in college when I began dating my husband. He graduated from a classical Christian high school and spoke highly of the academics, but more importantly the emphasis on the Christ-centered education and character development. My husband and I were married in 2001. We have three wonderful children, all of whom attend the Ambrose School.
My family and I moved to Meridian from Moscow in 2017. My children attended a classical Christian school in Moscow and we were thrilled to learn that our move would allow us to continue their education at The Ambrose School. I began working as the Human Resource Assistant in 2019 and stepped into the role of Human Resource Manager when the previous manager retired in 2020.
We love all the opportunities the Treasure Valley offers to spend time together as a family. The mild winters and abundant sunshine make it an amazing place to live.
Church Affiliation: Faith Community Bible Church
Mrs. Molly Blakeman
Publications and Communications Manager
Bio
B.S., Marketing, University of Idaho
I have worked for a variety of organizations managing advertising, communications, and PR. I switched careers to be a full-time mom, which then grew into being a homeschooling mom for 10 years. I had followed the growth of The Ambrose School since it first began, and after a time, saw a need in my children’s lives for not just the academic challenge, but the opportunity to participate in a loving, Christ-centered community. The education at Ambrose is secondary to the character training that happens through the tremendous, sacrificial love that the teachers and administrators here show the students and families. They are concerned about their hearts, not just their minds.
I am married to the best graphic designer in Boise and we have four lovely girls. We all like to go on adventures around Boise, which can mean a hike in the foothills or trying out the newest restaurant.
Church Affiliation: The King’s Congregation
Mrs. Raegan Brown
Uniform Coordinator
Bio
B.A., Liberal Arts with a Concentration in French, Pepperdine University, 1997. Taught fourth grade and was the Gifted and Talented Coordinator at a small school district in Texas.
After taking a break from education to live overseas and start a family, I found myself drawn back to the classroom through my children. Once they were both school-aged, I began substitute teaching and became an active participant in their school community.
Looking at educational options for our children, we discovered classical Christian education. In our time at classical Christian schools, we have witnessed the enormous benefits of this model and the value of teaching students to think well and express themselves well. Bringing all of their education under the design and authority of God’s creation develops them as whole people and I love that they do not have to compartmentalize school from their faith. It has been a blessing to me to be able to come alongside parents at Ambrose to do the same for their children.
My husband and I moved to Boise with our two children in 2017. As lifelong Texans, we love the four seasons and enjoy all of the outdoor recreation opportunities available on our doorstep. Our children both attend Ambrose.
Church Affiliation: Faith Community Bible Church
Ms. Amber Mullenbach
Office Assistant
Bio
B.S., Family and Consumer Sciences—Early Childhood Education, minor in Biblical Studies, The Master’s University. Teaching in early education for over 10 years; administration for over 5 years.
I highly respect classical Christian education for its integration of Biblical worldview, critical-thinking skills and classical literature. I appreciate Ambrose’s emphasis on developing spiritual character, academic excellence and respectful citizenship. I am passionate about instilling virtue and a love of learning in the rising generation, as well as supporting current endeavors through organization and administration. While assisting the Ambrose office staff, I am simultaneously a preschool owner and teacher.
Outside of my weekly responsibilities, I enjoy hiking, paddle boarding, skiing, traveling and interpreting American Sign Language.
Church Affiliation: Eagle Christian Church
Mrs. Raegan Brown
Uniform & Logowear Coordinator
Bio
B.A., Liberal Arts with a Concentration in French, Pepperdine University, 1997. Taught fourth grade and was the Gifted and Talented Coordinator at a small school district in Texas.
After taking a break from education to live overseas and start a family, I found myself drawn back to the classroom through my children. Once they were both school-aged, I began substitute teaching and became an active participant in their school community.
Looking at educational options for our children, we discovered classical Christian education. In our time at classical Christian schools, we have witnessed the enormous benefits of this model and the value of teaching students to think well and express themselves well. Bringing all of their education under the design and authority of God’s creation develops them as whole people and I love that they do not have to compartmentalize school from their faith. It has been a blessing to me to be able to come alongside parents at Ambrose to do the same for their children.
My husband and I moved to Boise with our two children in 2017. As lifelong Texans, we love the four seasons and enjoy all of the outdoor recreation opportunities available on our doorstep. Our children both attend Ambrose.
Church Affiliation: Faith Community Bible Church
Mrs. Kate Stillman
Logistics Coordinator
Bio
B.S. in Environmental Studies; Children’s Ministry for 15 years; swim instructor for over 20 years, specializing in the young and special needs. I have been a substitute teacher, tutor and P.E. Teacher at the Ambrose School over the years and also assist the drama department.
I chose to leave my career in Environmental Regulatory Compliance, so that our family could move to Boise and attend the Ambrose School in 2010. I have been married to my husband, Mark, for almost 15 years, and we have two children at the Ambrose School. We chose a Classical Christian School for our family to grow in the love and knowledge of their Lord and Savior. I believe strongly in educating the whole student: Mind, Body, and Soul. I am looking forward to challenging my students physically, cultivating the Seven Virtues with in their hearts, and growing with them this year.
Church Affiliation: All Saints Presbyterian Church
Mr. Nathan Luotonen
IT Support Technician
Bio
Since I was a kid, technology has always fascinated me and made me curious about how it can work and apply to modern needs. Starting with my grandma first showing me how computers worked as a young kid propelled me into the field of IT. Technology has always come naturally to me and I have always done my best to fill the void of a role that does not always come naturally to some. I received my first official job in IT as a Geek Squad Agent where not just understanding technology was key, but how that relates to people and their lifestyles. I moved up to assisting in managing IT for multiple businesses and schools and eventually landed at The Ambrose School. The school’s philosophy on classical Christian education and putting Jesus at the center of it all made it a “no brainer” as to where I wanted to put my time and effort.
Growing up in Michigan for most of my life, I moved to Idaho in 2014 where I met my beautiful wife, Amariah. We married in 2021 and have two beautiful newborn twin daughters that we are loving every day and learning how much we value sleep. We enjoy the outdoors with paddleboarding, biking, camping, and going on walks. My personal hobbies include gaming, going to the shooting range, and preparing my list of dad jokes for when my girls get older.
Church Affiliation: Celebration Church, Nampa
